Before becoming a successful solo artist, Mars was an acknowledged music producer, writing songs for many artists such as Alexandra Burke, Travie McCoy, Adam Levine, Brandy, Sean Kingston, and Flo Rida, Far East Movement.

As part of the Smeezingtons He became recognized as a solo artist after lending his vocals to the songs 'Nothin' on You' by B.o.B, The track proved an enormous hit, skyrocketing to No. 1 on the Billboard singles chart, and instantly transforming Bruno Mars from a behind-the-scenes composer into a pop performer.

Bruno co-wrote Travie McCoy's 'Billionaire' Bruno Mars came up with the lyrical concept for 'Billionaire' during a trip to London in which he was given Â£240 ($350) by his record label to spend for 11 days.

Bruno Mars received six nominations; Best Rap Song and Best Rap/Sung Collaboration for 'Nothin' on You', Record of the Year for 'Nothin' on You' and "Fuck You", Song of the Year for 'Fuck You', and Producer of the Year, Non-Classical at the 53rd Grammy Awards.

On September 22, 2011, it was announced on Mars' website that his new song "It Will Rain" will appear on The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn â Part 1 Original Motion Picture Soundtrack which was released on November 8.

In December 2012, Mars released his second studio album, Unorthodox Jukebox. In the United States, the album debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 with sales of 187,000. The album also charted number one album in Switzerland and in United Kingdom, he became the fastest selling album by a recording artist in 2012.